Iresi, Osun State – Thursday, October 2, 2025 –
History was made at The Polytechnic, Iresi, as the Department of Mass Communication officially launched the maiden edition of its student-designed Iresi Beacon Magazine, unveiled a giant billboard banner, and premiered a student-produced movie titled Trapped. The landmark event, described as a turning point in the academic and professional training of the department, drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, staff, students, alumni, and invited guests from across Osun State and beyond.
The colourful ceremony was graced by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Adewoyin Azeez Olakunle, who also represented the Governing Council Chairman, alongside the institution’s Registrar, Mr. Samuel Olakunle, the Bursar, Director of Works, and other principal officers. Also in attendance were royal fathers including the Oluresi of Iresi Land, Oba Sikiru Adeseun Ibiloye (Osimiri II), represented by High Chief Awodiji Shina, and the Rejoka of Iresi Land, among several notable dignitaries.
Delivering the keynote address, the Head of Department of Mass Communication, Mr. Salaudeen Abdullahi Ishola, described the event as “a monumental breakthrough that not only showcases the creativity of students but also mirrors the vision of the department to groom industry-ready and socially relevant professionals.” He noted that the Iresi Beacon Magazine represents a milestone publication written, designed, and edited entirely by students — a platform he said would “serve as the students’ collective voice, legacy, and professional portfolio.”
Speaking on the movie Trapped, the HOD emphasized that it was more than entertainment, describing it as “an intellectual and creative proof that our students can conceptualize, script, shoot, and produce world-class content without cutting corners.” He added that the student-designed billboard stood as a practical demonstration of advertising competence and innovation in public relations, cementing the department’s readiness for national recognition.
The Rector, Dr. Olakunle, in his goodwill message, appreciated the Oluresi of Iresi Land, the council, and all stakeholders for their unflinching support. He reaffirmed his commitment to the growth of the institution, stressing that all improvements achieved under his leadership were for the benefit of the land and people. He also hinted at “a modest adjustment in school fees for the 2025/2026 academic session” to sustain infrastructural and academic development.
Dr. Olakunle further commended the students and editors of the magazine for what he described as “an impressive improvement compared to last year’s edition.” According to him, “The students did not only write; they went into the field, gathered facts, and produced a professional magazine that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with government-owned institutions.”
Adding spice to the event was entertainment by Clever Paul, a Mass Communication alumnus and former student entertainer of the Polytechnic.
In his remarks, Dr. Idowu Akinrosoye Abiodun, HOD of Mass Communication at Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, lauded the efforts of both the Rector and the Iresi Mass Communication Department. He noted that the Iresi Beacon Magazine could serve as a qualifying tool for the long-awaited accreditation of HND Mass Communication. He further encouraged that the production be sustained annually as a tradition, urging students to actively participate and sharpen their skills for the real world.
The highlight of the event was the launching of the magazine where the chief launcher, Oba Sikiru Adeseun Ibiloye (Osimiri II), alongside the Rector and other stakeholders, supported the project with financial contributions. The movie Trapped was then screened to wide applause, followed by the unveiling of the billboard — symbolizing a new dawn for the department.
In interviews granted afterwards, alumni expressed pride in the progress of the department. Mr. Salaudeen Ishola reaffirmed that this was the fourth year of such innovative student projects and that the tradition would continue annually to ensure that every set of graduating students leaves behind a lasting professional legacy.
The day ended in an atmosphere of joy, pride, and renewed commitment to excellence, with everyone departing with a sense of history in the making.
Wow!
This is wonderful.
Kudos to the department, HOD and the team in general that made this a reality.